SALT LAKE CITY — Gov. Spencer Cox announced Tuesday the appointment of Judge John Nielsen to the Utah Supreme Court, selecting the appellate and constitutional law expert to fill the vacancy created by the pending retirement of Justice John A. Pearce on Dec. 1.

The governor's decision followed an extensive review that included interviews, and a detailed look at the nominee's written work and case records. Judge Nielsen's background includes service as an Assistant Solicitor General, a judge on Utah's Third District Court, and a legal educator teaching appellate practice at both Brigham Young University and the University of Utah law schools.

"Utah’s Constitution established a merit-based system that puts qualifications, character, and independence above politics,” Cox said in a statement

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